alpha-Lobeline hydrochloride
[CAS# 134-63-4]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Nervous system medication >> Central stimulant
• Name: alpha-Lobeline hydrochloride
• Synonyms: (-)-Lobeline hydrochloride; 2-[(2R,6S)-6-[(2S)-2-Hydroxy-2-phenyl-ethyl]-1-methyl-2-piperidyl]-1-phenyl-ethanone hydrochloride
• Molecular Formula: C₂₂H₂₇NO₂^.HCl
• Molecular Weight: 373.92
• CAS Registry Number: 134-63-4
• EC Number: 205-150-2
• SMILES: CN1C(CCCC1CC(=O)C2=CC=CC=C2)CC(C3=CC=CC=C3)O.Cl

Properties

• Solubility: 50 mM (Ethanol), 10 mM (water) (Expl.)
• Melting point: 183-185 ºC (decomp.) (Expl.)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS06 Danger
• Hazard Statements: H301-H331
• Precautionary Statements: P261-P264-P270-P271-P301+P316-P304+P340-P316-P321-P330-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H301
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H331
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H311

• Transport Information: UN 1544

Discovory and Applicatios

Alpha-lobeline hydrochloride is a chemical compound derived from the plant species Lobelia inflata, commonly known as Indian tobacco. It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its bronchodilatory and respiratory stimulant effects. In modern pharmacology, alpha-lobeline hydrochloride has gained attention for its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of smoking cessation, neurological disorders, and as a respiratory stimulant.

The discovery of alpha-lobeline hydrochloride can be traced to the study of the Lobelia inflata plant. Traditionally, Native American tribes used the plant for its medicinal properties, including its ability to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. In the 19th and 20th centuries, researchers isolated lobeline, the active alkaloid in Lobelia inflata, and further investigated its pharmacological effects. The hydrochloride form of the compound, alpha-lobeline hydrochloride, was developed to improve the compound's solubility and stability, making it more suitable for clinical use.

Alpha-lobeline hydrochloride functions as a nicotinic receptor agonist, meaning it can interact with the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain. This activity has led to its investigation as a potential smoking cessation aid. It is thought that alpha-lobeline hydrochloride can mimic the effects of nicotine without the addictive properties, thus reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms in individuals trying to quit smoking. The compound’s ability to stimulate the release of dopamine also contributes to its potential as a smoking cessation aid, as dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in reward and addiction.

In addition to its role in smoking cessation, alpha-lobeline hydrochloride has shown potential applications in the treatment of neurological disorders. Some studies suggest that the compound may have neuroprotective effects, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease. Research has also indicated that alpha-lobeline hydrochloride may act as a bronchodilator, aiding in the treatment of respiratory conditions by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways. It has been explored in combination with other drugs to enhance its effects and offer more effective treatments for both respiratory and neurological conditions.

Despite its potential benefits, the clinical use of alpha-lobeline hydrochloride has been limited due to concerns about its safety profile and side effects. High doses of the compound can lead to toxicity, including nausea, vomiting, and respiratory distress. Further research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential and risks associated with alpha-lobeline hydrochloride, as well as to optimize its use in clinical settings.

Overall, alpha-lobeline hydrochloride is an intriguing compound with a variety of potential applications, particularly in smoking cessation and respiratory health. As research continues, it may become a more widely used therapeutic agent, providing a valuable alternative for the treatment of nicotine addiction and related conditions.

References

2015. 6-Phosphogluconate dehydrogenase links oxidative PPP, lipogenesis and tumour growth by inhibiting LKB1-AMPK signalling. Nature Cell Biology, 17(11).
DOI: 10.1038/ncb3255

2011. High-throughput screening identification of poliovirus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase inhibitors. Antiviral Research, 91(3).
DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2011.06.006